Do You Know Everything? A Comprehensive Guide to the Types and Beautiful Meanings of "Bride Kimono," Cherished by Japanese Women Through the Ages.

Have You Ever Wanted to Wear a Bridal Kimono? Let's Discover the Types of Bride Kimonos!

The bridal kimono is a wedding attire that values traditional Japanese culture. As a woman, haven’t you ever admired its beauty, elegance, and subtlety at least once in your life?

Such a wonderful kimono, but even though we refer to it as "wa-sō" (Japanese attire), there are various types. From classic outfits like the "shiromuku" and "iro-uchikake" to some unique ones such as the "aka-muku" and "hikifurisode," there is an abundance of options! Do you know about their designs and the meanings behind them?

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For Japanese women, it's worthwhile to learn about the types of bridal kimonos!

Bridal Wedding Attire #1: Shiromuku

First, let’s introduce the 'shiromuku,' a staple style for shrine wedding ceremonies! The luxurious charm comes from the uniform use of white for everything from the "kake-shita" worn under the uchikake to the accessories like the obi.

The 'shiromuku' represents a pure white bride free from stains, suggesting a humble and wonderful meaning of "I will be dyed in the color of my new home." The traditional headpieces include "kakushi" or "wata-boshi."

Bridal Wedding Attire #2: Iro-Uchikake

Another popular bridal kimono for photoshoots and wedding receptions is the 'iro-uchikake.' This term refers to any uchikake that is not white, characterized by its lavish and bright embroidery featuring patterns like pine, bamboo, plum blossoms, cranes, and hinoki fans.

The 'iro-uchikake' is considered among the highest ranks of Japanese attire, alongside the shiromuku. The impression can drastically change depending on the colors, patterns, and matching accessories, allowing brides to create their own preferred coordination.

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Bridal Wedding Attire #3: Hikifurisode

The 'hikifurisode' refers to a style in which the kimono's hem is dragged along—this is the "hiki-zuri" style! Since you don't wear an uchikake, it allows for greater mobility, and you can pay special attention to the patterns and tying methods of the obi.

A bride walking in a hikifurisode resembles a princess from the Heian period! Additionally, as furisode are the formal attire for unmarried women, the wedding ceremony is the last chance to wear a furisode. Why not try it on during a photoshoot?

Bridal Wedding Attire #4: Aka-Muku

Have you ever seen the very rare 'aka-muku' wedding attire? As the name suggests, this is the red version of the shiromuku. The bright red fabric is adorned with simple embroidery as an accent.

The aka-muku carries the meaning of "the bride expresses her joy and celebratory spirit in full." It is vibrant and flashy, making it a top-tier bridal kimono that truly lights up the occasion!

Bridal Wedding Attire #5: Kuro-Muku

Lastly, let's introduce the also rare 'kuro-muku.' This is the black version of the shiromuku and aka-muku, characterized by its extensive black coloring that gives a cool and stylish atmosphere.

The kuro-muku means "I have already been dyed in your (new home's) color." It beautifully conveys the feeling of dedication to a beloved partner, making it popular among unique and cool brides.

All are beautiful! I want to try them all!

How was that? We introduced five ceremonial kimonos that have been loved by Japanese women throughout history. Each kimono has beautiful designs and meanings that make you want to wear them all! If you’re considering a pre-wedding shoot, a kimono wedding, or a reception with a Japanese theme, be sure to select a beautiful bride kimono that fits your personal taste!

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